Links Between the Geomagnetic Field, Climate Change, and Orbital Cycles as Recorded in Quaternary Sediments From the North Atlantic

University Of California-Davis, Davis CA

Investigators

Abstract

The possible link between variations in the Earth's geomagnetic field and climate change events and/or Earth's orbital variations is the subject of debate. Using core samples from 4 ODP and IODP sites in the North Atlantic, researchers plan to conduct high resolution magnetic studies over particularly the last 1 M.y., but back to 2.4 Ma at the site drilled on IODP Expedition 306. By combining their results with existing isotopic data and new stable isotope measurements in core intervals characterized by significant magnetic excursions, the researchers will refine chronologies, sample intervals of magnetic stability, polarity reversal, and anomalous excursions, and provide a direct test for the hypothesized link between geomagnetic field changes and climate change. Broader impacts include the potential of this research to fundamentally alter understanding of the links among orbital variations, climate change, and geomagnetic field characteristics, involvement of students, and local outreach to elementary school classrooms.